Corbett Centre Gardens

                            

Project Summary

The project was to regenerate the landscaped garden grounds of a day care centre that had fallen into disuse.  The grounds adjoin the Merkinch Community Centre, a focal point of this pedominently Local Authority housing area.  It was hoped that the gardens will become a community asset, as they are well used by children, and provide a link between the two centres and the nearby residential area.

Initial work has started in the form of a clean up during an Environmental activity week in the area. This involved a group of children joining adults and visitors to the day care centre, in cutting back vegetation and clearing the existing paths. Further work was assisted by funding professional support to assist the community tackle the more technical landscaping issues

History/Background
Merkinch Greenpace (formerly South Kessock Environmental Company) has been operating for more than 10 years in this area.  It is run by enthusiasm from the community and is assisted by a full time Project Officer.

In November 2004 a very successful Conference titled 'Moving Forward', attracted Charles Kennedy as a key note speaker, and was successful in identifying the priorities for action. As a result an environmental week was held in March 2005 which saw a number of projects being tackled, including drystane dyke training, clean ups and regeneration work in the Corbett Centre Gardens.

Planned Outcomes
  1. To make the gardens accessible for all users of the Corbett Centre and residents from the local area.
  2. To increase the use of the gardens by members of the community and by people attending the Corbett Centre.
  3. To involve local community groups to ensure they feel ownership of the gardens.
  4. To engage a wide variety of users in the development of the gardens.

          

Outcomes Achieved

  1. The paths and garden have been cleared and raised areas developed, allowing wheelchair access. The new picnic tables also accommodate wheelchairs and the footpath improvements have made the area more accessible to local residents.
  2. The gardens are now revitalised and provide visitors to the Centre and community groups with an opportunity to enjoy the facilities.
  3. Local community groups, including youth groups, were involved with the garden improvements. This will hopefully reduce vandalism and encourage those who have been involved to take ownership of the area and maintain the garden in the future.
  4. The probation service, The Highland Council and staff from the Corbett Centre were all involved in the development of the gardens.